It’s no secret the Rocky Mountains are a spectacular mountain range that stretch between two countries. They’re massive, snowcapped, filled with various tree species and are abundant with wildlife living in elevations up to 4400m/14,440ft. The Canadian Rockies surround a small town, Banff. It is known for its charm, restaurants, bars, shopping, hotels, activities but more importantly, its landscape. Anywhere you look, you’re surrounded by mountains. Spending three days in this town is easily done.
I flew to Calgary and drove one hour to Banff National Park. I made my way up the mountain to the Banff Springs Hotel to check in before I started my adventure. I strolled around the magnificent property loaded with history. Upon checking in, I decided to take the morning and enjoy time at the Willow Stream Spa which is nestled in the mountains. They have indoor mineral pools and outdoor whirlpools. This made my first stop very relaxing after my short drive to the mountains.
Next stop was the Bow Falls Trail surrounded by tall trees, blue waters and serene sound of the falls. The falls are walking distance from the hotel along a very scenic path. Depending what you want to do will determine how much time to spend there. An hour seemed good to view the spectacular falls and walk along the trails. Afterwards, I walked into Banff Town along Banff Avenue.
Here you’ll find lots of unique shops, restaurants and bars. Stopped in to the iconic Balkan Greek Restaurant that’s been a Banff establishment for over 30 years. After an early dinner, I strolled down Banff Ave and shopped which included a stop at the famous candy store Banff Candy Store. Lastly, I ended the evening with a beautiful and delicious cocktail at the Block Restaurant Banff.
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Day 2 started with a drive on Tunnel Mountain Road. I chose to do this solo, rather than go on a tour, so I could stop at my leisure. Banff is known for being picturesque and this drive did not disappoint.
Heading back into the town, Cave and Basin was my next destination. This national historical site gave a lot of background on the hot springs in the region including a tunnel walk to the bubbling waters inside a cave. You can’t soak in these hot springs so I decided I would go to the Banff Upper Springs. It is here that I was able to relax in an outdoor natural mineral water pool surrounded by the Rockies in about 40C/100F waters. This can be done anytime of the year but it’s especially gorgeous in the winter with cooler temperatures and snow-covered mountains. After a day packed with adventure, I met up with friends to enjoy an amazing steak dinner and cocktails. Alberta is known for beef. Chuck’s Steakhouse was the location followed by Park Distillery for a nightcap. And if you decide you want to go all out one evening in this resort town, I highly recommend live music and drinks at the Rose & Crown.
My last day in Banff was spent taking the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for some of the most jaw dropping views of the Banff region. You can hike up the mountain and save some money but if you are limited on time, I suggest the gondola. It is here you will see six stunning mountain ranges and a panoramic view of the Bow Valley. After viewing the interactive center and getting bite to eat, head outside to the 360-degree observation deck as well as many paths on the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk. I spent about three hours and then made my down on the gondola to stop into the town to pick up some food for my picnic.
The last stop made in Banff National Park, before heading back to Calgary, was the glacial waters of Lake Minnewanka. It’s here I threw a blanket down and picnicked by the banks of the water. At the lake, you have options to partake in many activities and enjoy the views, once again. Luckily, I enjoyed the sunset before I made way back to the city.
It’s amazing that an hour away from a city with over a million people lies this lovely, not overdeveloped, resort town. A destination where man and wildlife live in harmony with one another. A place with fresh, crisp air, breathtaking views, great eats and drink all make Banff a must see tourist spot.
Story / Photography By Alaa Razoky
